The team at LJ Hooker Wollongong | Corrimal | Shellharbour is preparing to lace up their walking shoes to raise much-needed funds for local youngsters living with a disability or illness.
The high-profile agency, which has three offices in the region, is a major sponsor of the 2025 Great Illawarra Walk to be held on Saturday 8 March 2025 stretching 40 kilometres from Shellharbour to Austinmer.
Principal Martin Merritt said the team was delighted to increase their involvement in the annual event, which has been running for 17 years and has raised almost $1.3m for KidsWish.
The charity is committed to fulfilling the lives of youngsters with disability or illnesses, and their families, through programs, special events and community projects with a focus on inclusivity.
As a major sponsor, LJ Hooker Wollongong | Corrimal | Shellharbour will be supporting participants along the way and covering the cost of walk t-shirts, which means every cent raised will go directly to KidsWish.
“We have been involved with this wonderful event from its inception, and when there was an opportunity to increase our involvement, we jumped at the chance,” Mr Merritt said.
“We pledge that 100 per cent of the funds raised are to stay in the Illawarra supporting our local youth. We ensure that the amount raised on our website is the amount on the cheque that is handed to KidsWish to continue its wonderful work.”
Head of Network Australia, Chris Keating, congratulated Mr Merritt and his team for donating funds and time to support those in need within their region.
“Since 1928, our network has raised millions of dollars for worthwhile causes through the LJ Hooker Foundation and also individual offices giving back to the local community, and this is yet another wonderful example,” he said.
“It is a meaningful way to help others and support initiatives that have a lasting impact on families living in our local areas.”
The Great Illawarra Walk commences at the Bean Roasted Espresso Bar Shellharbour at 7am and finishes at the Headlands Hotel Austinmer.
Participants can complete the challenging 40-kilometre route or opt to cover part of the distance. Last year’s event attracted 700 walkers and, this year, even more participants are expected to join in the fun.
A much-loved section of the Illawarra coastline with spectacular views, known as the Blue Mile, is included in the route. This accessible stretch of approximately 2 kilometres is open to all ages and abilities and will finish with a party at Stuart Park.
“Some of our team will be doing the walk, while others will be assisting with water stops along the way,” Mr Merritt said.
“Helping kids in need has been at the heart of our fundraising because many of our staff are parents, we know how vital it is to be able to access the right support and programs. The Illawarra community is very giving; we believe that the youth of today are our future.”
Walkers pay $50 to register for the event and can raise money through sponsors. For more information go to https://greatillawarrawalk.com/.
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